Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
49% cheaper
Huntsville is 49% more affordable than Irvine. A $75,000 salary in Irvine is equivalent to $38,343 in Huntsville.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Alabama salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Huntsville has a housing index of 79 while Irvine sits at 294 (national average = 100). The median home in Huntsville costs $260,000 compared to $1,050,000 in Irvine, a difference of $790,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Huntsville versus $3,000 in Irvine.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Huntsville scores 96 while Irvine scores 108.
Healthcare costs in Huntsville (93) are lower than Irvine (109).
Median household income in Huntsville is $56,098 compared to $108,038 in Irvine. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Huntsville.
Amazon affiliate links